By A Correspondent

War veteran Blessed Geza has implicated Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa in the rampant looting of resources in the country.

Geza in his address to the nation on Tuesday evening, described Mr Mnangagwa as a failed leader.

He challenged the Zanu PF leader to step down with immediate effect.

” You can all see how Mnangagwa and Zvigananda have destroyed our economy. Mnangagwa and Wicknell Chivayo stole your money through the Gwanda Solar project and the dubious ZEC deal,” said Geza.

Also watch video below:

By A Correspondent

War veteran and outspoken political activist Blessed Geza has publicly called on President Emmerson Mnangagwa to stop what he described as acts of intimidation against business owners ahead of a planned national shutdown.

Speaking on Tuesday evening, Geza accused the President’s allies of coercing shop owners into staying open in an effort to undermine the shutdown protest scheduled for April 22 and 23, which Geza had organized to demand Mnangagwa’s resignation.

“We have received reports of intimidation of shop owners by Emmerson Mnangagwa’s men,” said Geza. “Don’t be afraid, nobody will seize your business.”

Geza urged Zimbabweans to remain united and not bow to fear. “Let us unite as a nation, we all want freedom,” he added, emphasizing that the protest action was aimed at restoring democratic rights and holding leaders accountable.

The national shutdown, according to Geza, is intended to send a strong message to the ruling government, expressing widespread frustration with economic hardships and governance issues under Mnangagwa’s leadership.

By A Correspondent

In a bid to undermine the national shutdown called by war veteran and activist Blessed Geza, state security agents reportedly forced civil servants in Masvingo to report for duty on Tuesday morning.

Sources at Benjamin Burombo Building, Masvingo, which houses several government departments, revealed that department heads were instructed to ensure all employees were at work.

“We were told point-blank by our supervisors that staying at home was not an option,” said a government worker who spoke on condition of anonymity.

“They said they had received a directive from state security agents, and we had to show up or face consequences.”

Another employee added, “Some of us were scared. We didn’t want to be seen as supporting the shutdown, so we came to work just to stay out of trouble.”

The national shutdown, initiated by Geza, aims to pressure President Emmerson Mnangagwa to resign. Geza had claimed that Mnangagwa’s government was using fear to suppress dissent.

“We have received reports of intimidation of shop owners by Emmerson Mnangagwa’s men,” Geza said.

“Don’t be afraid—nobody will seize your business. Let us unite as a nation, we all want freedom.”

Reports from multiple provinces suggest efforts were made to maintain normal operations in public institutions despite the shutdown call.

The government has not issued an official response to the claims.

By Health Reporter- The Ministry of Health has revealed that 2,190 people were bitten by snakes in March, according to its latest weekly disease surveillance report, which also covered cases of anthrax and dog bites across the country.

“The cumulative number of snake bite cases is 2,193, with nine deaths reported overall,” the Ministry stated. “Snake bites remain a public health concern, with 167 cases reported this week. Fortunately, no deaths were recorded.”

In the same reporting week, two anthrax cases were confirmed in Gokwe North and Gokwe South, bringing the year-to-date total to 49, with no fatalities so far.

Meanwhile, dog bites remain the most reported animal-related health issue, with 646 cases recorded this week alone.

Breakdown of the cases:

• 140 bitten by vaccinated dogs
• 136 bitten by unvaccinated dogs
• 370 bitten by dogs with unknown vaccination status

The Midlands Province recorded the highest number of cases at 102, followed by Mashonaland Central with 86. 

The cumulative number of dog bite cases has now reached 9,218, with no deaths reported.

Authorities continue to urge the public to seek immediate medical attention after animal bites and to ensure proper vaccination of domestic pets.

By Political Reporter- Two senior figures from the country’s notorious military-security apparatus, long associated with the brutal enforcement of ZANU PF rule under Robert Mugabe and later under Emmerson Mnangagwa, have died under mysterious circumstances during the Easter holidays, raising fresh questions about the fate of the so-called military junta that has dominated Zimbabwean politics since the 2017 coup.

The deceased are Walter Basopo, a long-serving Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO) operative implicated in the abduction of political activists, and Retired Brigadier General Victor Rungani, a former high-ranking member of the Joint Operations Command (JOC) who oversaw state-sponsored violence in the 2008 presidential run-off election.

Basopo, reportedly a close relative of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, died in a hospital on Tuesday, according to family sources. Mourners gathered at his home later that evening.

He is best remembered in activist and human rights circles as one of the state agents frequently named in connection with the March 2015 disappearance of journalist and pro-democracy campaigner Itai Dzamara. 

Dzamara, a vocal critic of Mugabe’s regime, spearheaded the “Occupy Africa Unity Square” protests and became a symbol of resistance against state repression.

He was abducted in broad daylight by suspected security agents and has not been seen since.

Despite repeated appeals from local and international human rights bodies, including Amnesty International and the United Nations, the state has provided no credible answers about Dzamara’s fate.

Basopo was routinely identified by insiders and watchdog groups as a member of the CIO’s special operations unitbelieved to be responsible for neutralising dissenters through surveillance, intimidation, torture, and disappearances.

His death brings a grim finality to one of Zimbabwe’s most haunting cases of enforced disappearance—while robbing the Dzamara family and the nation of a potential witness in any future truth-seeking processes.

In a striking coincidence, Basopo died on the same day as Retired Brigadier General Victor Rungani, whose passing was confirmed by the Children of War Veterans Association (COZWVA). 

His son, Hardlife Rungani, is an active member of the group.

Rungani, originally from Bikita in Masvingo Province, served in the shadowy Joint Operations Command—a powerful body composed of the heads of the army, police, intelligence, and prisons.

JOC was responsible for the coordination of ZANU PF’s coercive statecraft, especially during elections and political crises.

In the 2008 presidential run-off election, Rungani was allegedly deployed to Mashonaland East, where opposition supporters faced a wave of systematic violence, including beatings, torture, arson, and murder.

Human rights observers described the crackdown as a “campaign of terror,” which ultimately forced MDC leader Morgan Tsvangirai to withdraw from the race, allowing Mugabe to claim victory.

Rungani, like Basopo, was part of a generation of security chiefs who operated with virtual impunity during bothMugabe’s reign and the early Mnangagwa years. 

Their tactics left deep scars on Zimbabwe’s political landscape and silenced countless voices that dared to challenge the ruling elite.

The simultaneous deaths of Basopo and Rungani come at a time of intense political infighting within ZANU PF. 

Since the 2017 coup that toppled Mugabe and brought Mnangagwa to power, Zimbabwe has witnessed a precarious consolidation of military-political power—initially cloaked in promises of reform, but quickly reverting to authoritarian control.

The military junta, once united in its mission to depose Mugabe, has become increasingly fragmented.

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, widely seen as the coup’s architect, has clashed repeatedly with Mnangagwa over the direction of the party and control of state resources.

Reports of purges, mysterious deaths, and shifting loyalties within the security sector suggest that the post-coup honeymoon is long over.

Observers believe the deaths of Basopo and Rungani may signal the waning influence of Mugabe-era enforcers—many of whom found renewed purpose under Mnangagwa—but whose legacies are now seen as liabilities in the shifting sands of ZANU PF power struggles.

South Africa- The Border Management Authority (BMA) has reported that it has arrested more than 1,000 undocumented migrants at the Beitbridge border between South Africa and Zimbabwe over the Easter weekend.

The arrested include Zimbabweans, Malawians, and other Central African nationals.

BMA attributed these arrests to their operations using drones.

Earlier in April, the BMA and the Department of Home Affairs announced they’d procured four high-tech drones to combat illegal crossings at the country’s borders.

BMA head, Michael Masiapato, said that policing borders without drones was a costly task.

“A 1,000-plus people have been intercepted just in the past four days because of those drones. The most important thing that we are looking at implementing, we need to actually have a targeted approach where we identify the facilitators for this illegal migration issue and get them arrested.”
Masiapato detailed how drones were assisting in targeting illegal crossings at Beitbridge.

“In terms of here in Beitbridge, with the issue of the river here, we are able to see people being put into the boat and they are basically crossing the river with those individuals. So, what basically we do is we allow them to come through and as they come through we are able to send the coordinates to our border guards on the ground. And on that basis, they are able to go specifically to where those people are and we are able to get those people intercepted.”
-ewe.co.za

By James Gwati – Zimbabwe enters the second day of the national shutdown called by war veterans, with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s regime intensifying surveillance and security operations following a highly effective first day of the same yesterday.

Business was low on Tuesday, with streets in major cities, including Harare, Bulawayo, and Gweru, eerily empty as the shutdown took hold. 

Most shops, informal markets, and even some government departments were closed, with many citizens heeding the call to stay home in protest against corruption, economic collapse, and worsening repression.

Observers described the shutdown as one of the successful acts of civil disobedience in recent years, despite the state’sheavy-handed attempts to crush it.

Security forces, including plainclothes intelligence operatives and riot police, were deployed across Central Business Districts (CBDs), and they interrogated pedestrians and monitored movements. 

In Harare, riot police were visibly stationed at key intersections, bus termini, and shopping areas in anticipation of unrest that never materialized—thanks to the silent but effective protest.

The government’s response did not stop at surveillance. 

Over 100 political activists remain in detention following a wave of arrests last month linked to growing dissent and preemptive action against protest organizers. 

The detainees have been denied bail and access to legal counsel, raising alarm among international rights watchdogs.

Among the latest victims of the state’s security clampdown is opposition activist Godfrey Karembera, popularly known as Madzibaba veShanduko, a prominent ally of opposition leader Nelson Chamisa and a vocal critic of the Mnangagwa administration.

Early Tuesday morning—hours after the shutdown began—Karembera’s Harare home was petrol-bombed by unknown assailants. His teenage son was critically injured in the attack and is currently hospitalized with life-threatening burns. 

The home was largely destroyed in the blaze.

Multiple sources told ZimEye that the attack appeared to be a politically motivated act of intimidation. 

It is believed the perpetrators—suspected to be ruling party loyalists—targeted Karembera over his perceived capacity to mobilize citizens in support of Cde Geza’s shutdown call.

For years, Madzibaba veShanduko has been a symbol of peaceful resistance, donning white religious garb as he leads protests and public prayers denouncing state brutality. 

He has previously been arrested, tortured, and harassed for his activism. But this petrol bombing, insiders say, marks a sinister escalation in efforts to silence dissenting voices.

Cde Geza, who called for the two-day shutdown, is a former liberation war fighter who has emerged as a new face of protest politics in Zimbabwe. 

His message—a mix of populist rhetoric and liberation-era patriotism—has struck a chord with frustrated citizens, particularly the unemployed youth and some disillusioned veterans within the security sector.

His demand? For President Mnangagwa to step down amid economic ruin and political decay.

Despite the government’s threats, arrests, and increased deployment of security agents, Geza’s call has shaken the ruling elite—demonstrating the depth of public frustration and the state’s growing loss of legitimacy.

Human rights organizations are now urging an independent investigation into the attack on Karembera’s home and a full audit of the ongoing political detentions. 

They warn that the current trajectory—marked by state violence, fear, and repression—risks plunging Zimbabwe into a deeper crisis.

“The Mnangagwa government must choose between reform and repression,” said one Harare-based rights lawyer.“Crushing peaceful dissent only adds fuel to the fire.”

As Wednesday—the final day of the shutdown—unfolds, all eyes remain on Zimbabwe’s streets, now guarded by riot police but filled with the quiet defiance of an angry and fearful nation.

By A Correspondent

Zimbabwe’s Minister of Information Communication Technology, Tatenda Mavetera, has drawn attention for portraying herself as a selfless public servant devoted to faith, development, and humanitarian work—though her recent efforts have raised mixed reactions.

Mavetera, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Chikomba West Constituency, recently visited communities affected by a destructive whirlwind in Ward 21, Ringa. While she provided food aid, critics point out that she has not yet delivered on promises to rebuild damaged homes.

Addressing the situation, Mavetera said, “I also visited victims of property damage by a whirlwind in Ward 21 in Ringa. Thirty-one families were affected. We handed over some foodstuffs and continue working together with the civil protection unit to assist especially on the houses which were damaged. We are really sorry to these families. We will continue to assist in any way possible as we are really seized by this situation.”

Alongside her relief efforts, the minister used the Easter holiday to attend various church gatherings in her constituency, where she positioned herself as a devout Christian leader focused on unity and prosperity.

“This Easter, I had the privilege of attending various church conferences across Chikomba West Constituency like the Abundant Grace Ministries in Marirangwe—the councillor in Ward 11 is Cllr Chipunza—and ZAOGA Beatrice Assembly, where Cllr Danisa serves Ward 13,” Mavetera said.

She added, “It was a time of spiritual renewal, community bonding, and meaningful discussions on faith and development. I remain forever grateful for the prayers, wisdom, and unity shared. Together, we continue building a prosperous and God-fearing constituency.”

While her words aim to cast her in a positive light, some community members are questioning the tangible impact of her actions, particularly in addressing the urgent housing needs of those left homeless by the storm.

By A Correspondent | A top CIO head, Walter Basopo has died.

Mourners were travelling to the Mnangagwa family member’s home in Chinhoyi on Tuesday evening.

Basopo was announced dead in hospital on Tuesday, according to family sources.

He is one of the intelligence operatives accused of kidnapping the missing journalist Itai Dzamara in 2015. MORE TO FOLLOW…

By James Gwati – President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s regime has intensified surveillance and security operations following an effective national shutdown called by war veteran Cde Blessed Geza.

Business was low on Tuesday, with streets in major cities, including Harare, Bulawayo, and Gweru, eerily empty as the shutdown took hold. 

Most shops, informal markets, and even some government departments were closed, with many citizens heeding the call to stay home in protest against corruption, economic collapse, and worsening repression.

Observers described the shutdown as one of the successful acts of civil disobedience in recent years, despite the state’s heavy-handed attempts to crush it.

Security forces, including plainclothes intelligence operatives and riot police, were deployed across Central Business Districts (CBDs), and they interrogated pedestrians and monitored movements. 

In Harare, riot police were visibly stationed at key intersections, bus termini, and shopping areas in anticipation of unrest that never materialized—thanks to the silent but effective protest.

The government’s response did not stop at surveillance. 

Over 100 political activists remain in detention following a wave of arrests last month linked to growing dissent and preemptive action against protest organizers. 

The detainees have been denied bail and access to legal counsel, raising alarm among international rights watchdogs.

Among the latest victims of the state’s security clampdown is opposition activist Godfrey Karembera, popularly known as Madzibaba veShanduko, a prominent ally of opposition leader Nelson Chamisa and a vocal critic of the Mnangagwa administration.

Early Tuesday morning—hours after the shutdown began—Karembera’s Harare home was petrol-bombed by unknown assailants. His teenage son was critically injured in the attack and is currently hospitalized with life-threatening burns. 

The home was largely destroyed in the blaze.

Multiple sources told ZimEye that the attack appeared to be a politically motivated act of intimidation. 

It is believed the perpetrators—suspected to be ruling party loyalists—targeted Karembera over his perceived capacity to mobilize citizens in support of Cde Geza’s shutdown call.

For years, Madzibaba veShanduko has been a symbol of peaceful resistance, donning white religious garb as he leads protests and public prayers denouncing state brutality. 

He has previously been arrested, tortured, and harassed for his activism. But this petrol bombing, insiders say, marks a sinister escalation in efforts to silence dissenting voices.

Cde Geza, who called for the two-day shutdown, is a former liberation war fighter who has emerged as a new face of protest politics in Zimbabwe. 

His message—a mix of populist rhetoric and liberation-era patriotism—has struck a chord with frustrated citizens, particularly the unemployed youth and some disillusioned veterans within the security sector.

His demand? For President Mnangagwa to step down amid economic ruin and political decay.

Despite the government’s threats, arrests, and increased deployment of security agents, Geza’s call has shaken the ruling elite—demonstrating the depth of public frustration and the state’s growing loss of legitimacy.

Human rights organizations are now urging an independent investigation into the attack on Karembera’s home and a full audit of the ongoing political detentions. 

They warn that the current trajectory—marked by state violence, fear, and repression—risks plunging Zimbabwe into a deeper crisis.

“The Mnangagwa government must choose between reform and repression,” said one Harare-based rights lawyer.“Crushing peaceful dissent only adds fuel to the fire.”

As Wednesday—the final day of the shutdown—unfolds, all eyes remain on Zimbabwe’s streets, now guarded by riot police but filled with the quiet defiance of an angry and fearful nation.

By A Correspondent

A member of the Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) was rescued on Monday after his parachute got entangled in pine trees during a training exercise near the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre in Bulawayo.

The paratrooper was left hanging roughly 25 meters above the ground, prompting a swift response from the Bulawayo Fire and Ambulance Department.

Emergency crews managed to safely retrieve the suspended officer, who was then transported to United Bulawayo Hospital for medical attention.

The AFZ was preparing to take part in public displays during the upcoming Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), which will be officially opened by Mozambican President Daniel Chapo.

By A Correspondent

A heartbreaking incident has once again spotlighted the dire state of Zimbabwe’s public healthcare system.

A young man identified only as Sele tragically lost his life to a severe asthma attack after he failed to receive critical care at Chivhu Hospital due to the absence of a nebuliser.

The incident occurred earlier this week and was reported by Crime Watch Zimbabwe, which shared the distressing news on Tuesday. According to the platform, Sele experienced a sudden and severe asthma attack while in Chivhu and rushed to the local hospital in hopes of receiving emergency treatment. However, his condition rapidly deteriorated after it was discovered that Chivhu Hospital did not have a functioning nebuliser — a basic yet life-saving piece of equipment for asthma patients.

“SAD | His name was Sele, and he had an asthma attack while in Chivhu. Sadly, Chivhu Hospital couldn’t save his life because there was no nebuliser available,” Crime Watch Zimbabwe posted.

Realizing the gravity of the situation, Sele’s colleagues from Muvonde Hospital urgently dispatched an ambulance to Chivhu in an effort to transfer him back to his workplace, where he could access proper medical equipment. Tragically, their rescue mission came too late.

“His colleagues from Muvonde Hospital went to fetch him with an ambulance so he could receive treatment at his workplace, but when they arrived, he was already gone,” the report continued.

Sele’s death has sparked outrage and sorrow across social media, with many Zimbabweans decrying the chronic shortages, poor infrastructure, and lack of basic medical supplies in government-run hospitals. Others have called on the Ministry of Health and Child Care to urgently address equipment shortages that continue to cost lives.

This tragic event serves as a painful reminder of the life-and-death consequences faced by ordinary citizens in a broken healthcare system.

No comment could be obtained from Chivhu Hospital authorities at the time of publishing.

By A Correspondent

Suspected state security agents have reportedly breached a popular WhatsApp channel run by vocal government critic Jeremiah Masawi, alias Nyokayemabhunu.

The hack occurred on Monday, sending shockwaves among activists and opposition supporters.

Masawi claimed the attack was orchestrated by government operatives trying to silence dissent.

“This was an act of cowardice,” he said. “They fear the truth and the power of the people’s voice, so they resort to underhanded tactics.”

The WhatsApp channel, known for its political commentary and mobilization efforts, went offline briefly before users received suspicious messages aimed at discrediting Masawi and disrupting organizing efforts.

Masawi is collaborating with war veteran and activist Blessed Geza to push for President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s removal from office. Their campaign has gained momentum amid growing frustrations over economic hardships, corruption, and political repression.

Geza has called for a nationwide shutdown starting April 22, demanding Mnangagwa’s resignation. “This shutdown is the voice of the people,” Geza said. “We are saying enough is enough. Mnangagwa has failed, and he must go.”

The government hasn’t officially responded to the hacking allegations or the planned shutdown. However, security forces have historically cracked down on public protests and online dissent.

Despite the breach, Masawi remains undeterred. “They can hack a channel, but they can’t hack a movement. We will continue to fight for justice, freedom, and a better Zimbabwe.”

As the anxiety rises date approaches, attention focuses on how authorities will respond and public frustration will translate into mass action.

By A Correspondent

Controversial Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Secretary General, Sengezo Tshabangu, has sparked widespread outrage after publicly attempting to discredit the recent national shutdown protest. His comments come amid growing frustration over Zimbabwe’s deteriorating economic situation.

Tshabangu, who controversially seized control of the CCC party earlier in 2024 and has since been widely seen as aligning himself with President Emmerson Mnangagwa, made remarks on social media that many have interpreted as dismissive of citizens’ grievances.

Responding to activist Blessed Geza, Tshabangu said:
“Yes @blessedrgeza1 might be somehow right in his own thinking but calling for lawlessness isn’t tolerated. Peace-loving and patriotic people must learn to engage and resolve issues through dialogue rather than inciting violence and anarchy whilst the inciters are in hiding, suka.”

His comments triggered a swift and furious backlash online, with many accusing him of siding with the establishment and ignoring the lived struggles of ordinary Zimbabweans. Citizens slammed Tshabangu for what they saw as an attempt to silence legitimate protest and undermine the democratic right to dissent.

The public anger highlights growing tensions between political leaders and an increasingly disillusioned population grappling with inflation, unemployment, and a crumbling healthcare system.

The activist Madzibaba veShanduko’s home has been burnt down.

Multiple sources confirmed to ZimEye, Godfrey Karembera’s home was burnt down. “Although they were children inside the kids managed to escape unhurt,” a source said.

Further details were not available at the time of writing on this developing story . Refresh this page for more updates.

By Munacho Gwamanda-The Joint Operations Command (JOC), Zimbabwe’s top security coordinating body, held an emergency meeting in Harare on Monday amid growing panic over a two-day national shutdown called by war veteran and activist, Cde Blessed Geza.

According to sources close to the meeting, JOC, which includes heads of the military, police, and intelligence, ordered the deployment of undercover security officers at key locations across the capital’s central business district. 

Their mission: arrest and detain anyone suspected of attempting to disrupt business or government operations.

The meeting was convened shortly after Geza released an audio message declaring a nationwide stay-away scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, urging Zimbabweans to remain at home in peaceful protest against President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s rule.

Security officials reportedly flagged several high-risk locations, including Munhumutapa Building (which houses the President and Cabinet), Parliament, Defence House, and State House, as potential targets for sabotage. The state’s anxiety has been further fueled by fears of bomb attacks or coordinated disruptions, according to insiders.

In a show of alarm, the Public Service Commission (PSC) also issued a strongly worded circular on Monday, warning civil servants against participating in the shutdown. 

The PSC described Geza’s call as “reckless and disruptive incitement” that threatened national unity, economic stability, and institutional integrity.

“Tuesday and Wednesday are normal working days,” the statement read. “All public servants — unless officially on leave — are expected to report for duty. Participation in any stay-away that disrupts service delivery constitutes a dereliction of duty and an act of insubordination.”

Though the PSC did not mention Geza by name, government sources confirmed the statement was a direct response to his growing influence and defiant call for mass resistance.

A former ZANLA combatant, Geza has emerged as one of the most outspoken critics of the Mnangagwa administration. 

In recent months, he has accused the government of looting public resources, collapsing the economy, and betraying the ideals of the liberation struggle.

His shutdown call is the boldest attempt yet to force Mnangagwa out of office — coming just weeks after spontaneous protests rocked Harare in one of the most visible acts of dissent in recent years. 

Over 100 people were arrested during those demonstrations.

Despite the crackdown — and a warrant for his own arrest — Geza remains defiant.

Speaking from hiding, he has continued mobilizing online, urging civil servants, students, vendors, and transport operators to “down tools” in peaceful protest.

Government sources revealed that high-level meetings were held over the weekend as panic set in. In an unusual move, the PSC instructed all accounting officers to compile and submit attendance registers for inspection.

On Monday, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) joined the growing chorus of warnings, stating that officers had been deployed nationwide — particularly in urban centers, residential suburbs, and industrial hubs — to “maintain peace and order.”

While the ZRP statement did not explicitly name Geza, it warned against “interfering with the smooth flow of traffic and movement of the public,” vowing to arrest any perpetrators. Authorities also warned citizens against spreading“falsehoods” via social media, accusing activists of trying to “cause chaos and alarm.”

The government’s hardline response appears aimed at projecting stability ahead of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) taking place this week in Bulawayo — a marquee event that draws regional and international guests.

However, critics say the panicked reaction reveals a regime increasingly out of touch and rattled by growing public anger.

With the economy in freefall, rampant corruption, and a public service in decay, frustration is mounting.

The Zimbabwean dollar has collapsed, inflation is out of control, and essential goods are unaffordable for most citizens. Public sector wages vanish within days of payment. 

Meanwhile, corruption scandals involving COVID-19 funds, gold smuggling, and dubious government tenders continue to rock the administration, with many linked to Mnangagwa’s close allies.

Geza’s message is resonating — particularly with unemployed youth, demoralized civil servants, and war veterans disillusioned with the direction of the so-called “Second Republic.”

“Mnangagwa has captured the judiciary and suspended Parliament at will,” Geza said in a recent online broadcast.“Zimbabwe is now one of the few countries where the right to protest no longer exists. But we’ve discovered that staying at home is a powerful weapon.”

Since taking power through a 2017 military coup, Mnangagwa promised democratic renewal and economic revival. 

Nearly eight years later, those promises have largely evaporated. Parliament has been sidelined, electoral reforms shelved, and the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) remains discredited after overseeing disputed elections marred by voter suppression and irregularities.

Tensions within ZANU PF are also escalating. Vice President Constantino Chiwenga — architect of the 2017 coup — is reportedly consolidating power within the party and military, raising fears of renewed infighting ahead of the next elective congress.

During Independence Day celebrations in Gokwe on April 18, Mnangagwa issued a veiled threat to digital activists, condemning social media “incitement” — a clear jab at Geza and others challenging his authority online.

But Geza remains undeterred. 

In a final rallying cry issued late Monday, he urged Zimbabweans to take part in the stay-away.

“I’m pleading with you to stay home. I know it’s hard — we’re living from hand to mouth. But this is our only hope to make Mnangagwa hear us. We are staying away to force him to step down.”

By A Correspondent| A fresh financial scandal involving an illegal payment of almost US$100 million owed for gold supplies to the state-owned Fidelity Printers and Refiners by an obscure entity linked to a top Zanu PF gold baron has exploded in the government Treasury, exposing a venal transaction reeking of fraud and corruption.

The latest revelations are contained in confidential official documents circulating online, further showing how government, through the Finance Ministry permanent secretary George Guvamatanga – Treasury’s chief accounting officer – is badly mismanaging public funds, creating a chaotic monetary mess and exacerbating the mass suffering of the already impoverished people amid a chronic economic crisis.

The deal arose after the government and Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) contracted an obscure company, Gaingrid Investments (Private) Limited, to buy and sell gold to help boost the county’s bullion reserves.

War veterans leader Blessed Geza says Gaingrid is linked to prominent Zanu PF MP and gold dealer Pedzisayi “Scott” Sakupwanya, who is closely connected to Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa.

Company searches did not yield positive results on who actually its directors are, but evidence of payment is well-documented and undeniable.

Through this scheme, Gaingrid, which has no credible public profile and record, was given a massive deal to buy and sell gold from small, medium to large-scale miners across the country.

Gaingrid was entitied to a 5% incentive from the Ministry of Finance, Economic
Development and Investment Promotion (MOFEDIP) for gold delivered to Fidelity Printers and Refineries.

As a result, Guvamatanga claims government owed the briefcase company US$60 million which needed to be urgently paid without fail.

However, a messy repayment arrangement agreed in September last year says government would pay the entity at least US$8 million monthly instalments for 12 months, meaning Gaingrid would get US$96 million, just about US$100 million, which is way above what is purportedly owed in the first place.

This suggests that financial room of about US$40 million – US$36 million to be specific – was created for unexplained reasons, presumably as a transaction cost, commission or simply “money for the boys”, which bluntly put suggests money for bribes and kickbacks.

Latest information shows government has been paying Gaingrid the US$100 million as it now owed only US$36 million as at 7 April 2025.
About US$6 million of that amount was due to be paid within seven days from 7 April 2025; by 14 April.

This information is contained in a letter dated 7 April 2025 written by Finance ministry senior economist Itai Munaki to Ecobank Managing Director Moses Kurenjekwa.
This US$36 million venal transaction is fuelled by corruption and bribery as it appears to have been engineered and loaded onto the original US$60 million owed to Gaingrid, which the ministry purports to have discounted to US$20 million through Treasury Bills.
Ecobank is at the centre of the deal as the conduit for the movement of funds and buyer of Treasury Bills held by Gaingrid at a heavy discount of US$20 million, a third of the face value.

The bank agreed to discount the 5% incentive – US$60 million – owed to Gaingrid to US$20 million, although the repayment amounted to US$100 million, according to official documents.

This confusion seems to be designed and calculated to aid and abett fraud on public funds.

A source told The NewsHawks that “there is method in the madness”.
In a letter to Kurenjekwa, the Ecobank boss, Guvamatanga says he had clinched a US$20 million discount deal to settle the US$60 million debt to Gaingrid.

Yet in the same letter – in the subsequent paragraph – the permanent secretary also says his ministry undertakes to “irrevocably pay” Gaingrid at least US$8 million monthly for 12 months on or before the 10th of every applicable month, which means US$96 million in total.

In terms of the Public Finance Management Act [Chapter 22:19], the state has the authority to raise or borrow money from the market for its operations, including through Treasury Bills, but only through the minister, not the permanent secretary as done by Guvamatanga, worse still not by a junior official.

Apart from the dodgy figures and murky repayment arrangements, as well as the cronysim and a stench of corruption, the transaction is blatantly unconstitutional and illegal, lawyers say.

In the letter to Kurenjekwa, dated 4 September 2024, Guvamatanga writes:
“The Managing Director
Ecobank Zimbabwe Limited
Block A, Sam Levy Offce Park, 2 Piers, Road, Borrowdale, HARARE.
Attention: Mr. M. Kurenjekwa
Dear Sir,
RE: USD20,000 ,000.00 (TWENTY MILLION UNITED STATES DOLLARS) CASH PLEDGE AND COLLATERISED FACILITY AND SUPPORT LETTER FOR GAINGRID
INVESTMENTS (PRIVATE) LIMITED LOAN REPAYMENTS
The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe and the Govemnment of Zimbabwe has contracled Gaingrid Investments (Private) Limited (“Gaingrid”) to assist in boosting the County’s gold reserves.

Through this scheme, Gaingrid willbe purchasing gold from small, medium to large-scale miners across the
Country. Graingrid willbe entitied to 5% incentives from the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion (MOFEDIP) for gold delivered to Fidelity Printers and Refineries.

As such Ecobank has agreed to discount the 5% incentives owed to Gaingrid currently of USS60 million by MOFEDIP.

Ecobank has agreed to discount these receivables up to a limit of USS20,000,000.00 (Twenty United States Dolars) (“The Facility).
MOF undertakes to irrevocably pay Gaingrid monthly instalments of at least USD8 million or their incentive claim for the next 12 months using the Ministy’s funds held with Ecobank or any other
bank thereof.
The ministry wil pay these incentives to Gaingrid account held with Ecobank.
These payments willbe made on or before the 10% of every month. All facility fees will be by Galingrid.
MOFECIP has authorised George T. Guvamatanga whose signature is appended below, to represent the Ministry and sign this document and give elfect to the above said arrangement until the facility has been paid in full.
Yours faithfully
For and behalf of the Minister of Finance
SECRETARY.04 SEP 2024
Geòge T_Guvamatanga
SECRETARY FOR THE FINANCE, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INVESTMENT PROMOTION.”

In the 7 April 2025 letter’ Munaki writes to Kurenjekwa on behalf of Guvamatanga.

“07 April 2025
The Managing Director
Ecobank Zimbabwe Limited
Block A, Sam Levy Offce Park
2 Piers Road
Borrowdale
HARARE

Ref: Secretary for Finance & Economic Development Mgandane Dodlo Bullding
Corner Samora Machel Avenue/Simon V. Muzenda, Harare
ZIMBABWE
Attention: Mr. M. Kurenjekwa
Dear Sir,
RE: CONFIRMATION OF OUTSTANDING GOLD INCENTIVES FOR GAINGRID INVESTMENTS (PRIVATE) LIMITED
The Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion (“MoFEDIP”) wishes to confim it is owing US$36 million which relates to 5% gold incentives.

In the next 7 Days we shall be making a payment of USD6 milion in respect to the above.
We hope you find the above to be in order.
Yours faithfully
For and behalf of the Minister of Finance
I. Munaki
FOR SECRETARY OF FINANCE, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & INVESTMENT PROMOTION.”

Government has been significantly replying on treasury bills, a short-term state debt instrument backed by Treasury, to pay its obligations.

The treasury bills are usually heavily discounted mainly through banks.

Discounting treasury bills can be considered corrupt if it involves unfair allocation too certain favoured individuals or entities without following a transparent and fair process.

Under such circumstances, officials receive bribes or kickbacks in exchange for favourable treatment in the allocation or pricing of treasury bills.

Officials or individuals with access to confidential information use that to profit from the purchase or sale of treasury bills.

The auction process for treasury bills is manipulated to benefit certain individuals or entities.

These practices can undermine the integrity of the financial system and create unfair advantages for those involved.

The main characteristics of TBs are:
a) they are issued by the national treasury;
b) they are short-term in nature, and
c) they are transferrable, hence the discounting in this case.

According to the Public Finance Management Act, the State has the authority to borrow money.

In terms of section 54 of the Public Finance Management Act, the Minister of Finance is empowered to borrow by way of:
a) the issue of bonds or stock; or
b) the issue of Treasury bills; Or
c) an advance or bank overdraft.
Section 53 of the Act states the purposes for which the minister may borrow money as:
d) to refinance a maturing debt or a loan paid before the redemption date; or
e) to finance national budget deficits; or
f) to obtain foreign currency for any Government undertaking; or
g) to maintain credit balances on a bank account of the Consolidated Revenue Fund; or
h) to regulate internal monetary conditions should the necessity arise; or
i) any other purpose approved by the House of Assembly by special resolution.

In this case, Guvamatanga was the main executor – not the minister as required by the law.

The gold deal scandal comss hot kn the heels of another murky transaction in which Guvamatanga was accused of providing an “illegal and unconstitutional” bank guarantee for a US$20 million loan to a seed company linked to command agriculture corruption.

Guvamatanga, in a letter to Ecobank, said Zimbabwe owed Valley Seeds US$191 578 835 as of February 2025.
Ecobank, the permanent secretary added, had now agreed to discount this legacy debt “up to a limit of US$20 million” which would be advanced as a loan to Valley Seeds, with treasury paying it back in instalments of US$5 million in a 12-month period, takhhhhhhghhhhing it to US$60 million.

Former Finance minister Tendai Biti has described the transactions as looting on a grand scale.

By Munacho Gwamanda – The Zimbabwean government has been thrown into panic following calls for a national shutdown by outspoken war veteran Blessed Geza, prompting a swift and urgent response from the Public Service Commission (PSC) ahead of the two-day stay-away that begins today.

This latest shutdown campaign is Geza’s boldest attempt yet to force President Emmerson Mnangagwa out of office. 

It comes on the heels of last month’s spontaneous protests in Harare — the most visible display of dissent in years — during which over 100 people were arrested. 

Despite those arrests and a warrant for his own arrest, Geza remains defiant, urging Zimbabweans to peacefully stay at home in protest.

In a press statement issued late Monday, the PSC warned civil servants against joining the shutdown, calling it “reckless and disruptive incitement” that threatens national unity, economic stability, and public institutions.

“Tuesday and Wednesday are normal working days,” the PSC said, adding that all public servants — unless officially on leave — were expected to report for duty. “Participation in any stay-away that disrupts service delivery constitutes a dereliction of duty and an act of insubordination.”

Although the PSC did not mention Geza by name, government insiders confirmed the statement was a direct response to the growing traction of his call for mass civil disobedience.

A former ZANLA fighter, Geza has emerged as one of the most vocal critics of Mnangagwa’s regime. 

In recent weeks, he has accused the government of looting public resources, presiding over a collapsing economy, and betraying the ideals of the liberation struggle. 

Through audio messages and social media broadcasts, he has urged citizens — from civil servants and transport operators to students and vendors — to “down tools” in protest.

Geza’s campaign appears to have shaken the state. 

Senior government officials reportedly held emergency meetings over the weekend. 

In an unusual directive, the PSC instructed all accounting officers to ensure attendance registers were completed and submitted for inspection.

On Monday, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) joined the fray, issuing its own warning against the planned two-day shutdown. 

Police spokespersons said law enforcement had been deployed across the country — particularly in urban centres, residential areas, and industrial zones — to “maintain peace and order.”

Though the ZRP also avoided naming Geza, its warning left little doubt about the target.

“In this regard, the police will arrest anyone who interferes with the smooth flow of traffic and the movement of the public,” the statement read.

The ZRP also cautioned against “abuse of social media” and urged citizens to ignore “social media postings meant to cause chaos and alarm in the country.”

The timing of the response appears to be aimed at projecting calm ahead of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), set to take place in Bulawayo this week — a high-profile event that draws regional and international guests.

But critics say the authorities’ hardline posture reflects a government increasingly rattled by its own citizens. 

With an economy in freefall, endemic corruption, and a crumbling public service, frustration is mounting.

Geza’s message is resonating — particularly with unemployed youth, struggling civil servants, and disillusioned war veterans. 

Speaking from hiding, he has continued to mobilize online, insisting that peaceful resistance is the only weapon left for Zimbabweans living under authoritarian rule.

“Mnangagwa has captured the judiciary and suspended Parliament at will,” Geza said in a recent broadcast. “Zimbabwe is now one of the few countries where the right to protest no longer exists. But we’ve discovered that staying at home is a powerful weapon.”

Mnangagwa, who seized power in a 2017 coup, promised a “Second Republic” and a break from Robert Mugabe’s legacy. But nearly eight years later, those promises have evaporated.

The Zimbabwean dollar has collapsed. Inflation is out of control. Basic goods are beyond reach for most people.

Public sector wages vanish in days. Corruption scandals involving COVID-19 funds, gold smuggling, and shady procurement deals have gone unpunished — many involving Mnangagwa’s close allies.

Meanwhile, the judiciary has been stacked with loyalists, Parliament sidelined, and electoral reforms shelved. 

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) remains discredited after presiding over disputed polls marred by voter suppression and irregularities.

Within ZANU PF, tensions are rising. Vice President Constantino Chiwenga — who orchestrated the 2017 coup — is reportedly consolidating his power base within the party and the military, stoking fears of renewed infighting ahead of the next congress.

Speaking in Gokwe during Independence Day celebrations on April 18, Mnangagwa issued a veiled threat to social media activists “inciting unrest” — a pointed jab at Geza and others using digital platforms to challenge his rule.

But Geza, undeterred, issued a final rallying cry late Monday: “I’m pleading with you to stay home. I know it’s hard — we’re living from hand to mouth. But this is our only hope to make Mnangagwa hear us. We are staying away to force him to step down.”

By A Correspondent

In a bold and passionate call to action, Norton Member of Parliament Richard Tsvangirai has urged young people to “leave mutoriro”—a local slang term for crystal meth—and instead embrace resilience, unity, and purpose.

Speaking during a Sports Gala held in his constituency on Sunday, Tsvangirai emphasized the importance of youth engagement in tackling the growing drug abuse crisis. “Today, we held our Sports Gala—a vibrant celebration of talent, energy, and unity,” he said. “Beyond the games, we used every avenue available to raise awareness against drug and substance abuse.”

The event, which brought together young athletes and community members, was not merely about competition. It became a platform for dialogue, mentorship, and collective reflection. “It was also the perfect opportunity to connect and engage with young people, listening to their voices and sharing messages of hope, resilience, and responsibility,” Tsvangirai added.

By integrating anti-drug messages into recreational activities, Tsvangirai is adopting a grassroots strategy—one that blends community celebration with social responsibility. His approach signals a shift in how leaders can use soft power and local culture to confront hard-hitting issues like drug addiction.

Analysts note that the MP’s method—engaging the youth through sport and direct dialogue—may be more effective than punitive measures alone. In a country where drug use among the youth is a rising concern, Tsvangirai’s approach highlights the urgent need for inclusive and proactive intervention.

The message is clear: substance abuse isn’t just a personal issue, it’s a societal challenge. And as Tsvangirai’s words suggest, the solution starts with hope, responsibility, and meaningful engagement.

Harare – Suspended Council for Legal Education (CLE) Executive Secretary Huggins Duri and lawyer Linda Kovi have been acquitted of fraud charges after a full trial before Harare regional magistrate Lazini Ncube.

In a ruling delivered last week, Magistrate Ncube found that the State had failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt, citing insufficient evidence and a lack of credible testimony. The court also exposed serious irregularities in the CLE’s examination processes and result dispatching mechanisms.

Central to the case was the testimony of Shorai Mupunga, a CLE official who the court found to be more of an accomplice than a reliable witness. Her evidence was described as lacking credibility and corroboration, further weakening the State’s case.

The fraud allegations stemmed from claims that Duri and Kovi had conspired to fraudulently secure a certificate of completion for Kovi, which enabled her admission as a legal practitioner in Zimbabwe.

Kovi, 34, an Administrator at Kanoti and Partners Public Interest Lawyers, obtained her LLB from the University of Africa in Lusaka in 2019. She subsequently registered with CLE in 2020 to undertake the mandatory conversion exams for foreign-trained law graduates. According to the State, she failed most of the required modules, including Civil Procedure, Statutes, and Ethics, and never sat for the Bookkeeping exam.

The prosecution alleged that Kovi, having failed to meet the certification requirements, approached Duri for assistance. Duri allegedly directed Mupunga to unlawfully include Kovi’s name on the list of successful candidates. A certificate was subsequently issued and collected by Duri, ultimately leading to Kovi’s admission to the High Court.

The State was represented by CLE Finance and Administration Manager Joe Zimba.

With both Duri and Kovi now fully cleared of any wrongdoing, the case has raised fresh questions about internal accountability within the CLE and the integrity of the certification process for legal practitioners in Zimbabwe.

By Farai D Hove | – Investigative Desk, Harare

A bombshell leak from Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Finance has ignited a national scandal, revealing that the government pledged USD $20 million in public funds to a little-known and opaque private firm, GainGrid Investments (Private) Limited. The letter, signed by the Permanent Secretary for Finance, George Guvamatanga, has exposed the state’s complicity in what analysts are calling a “textbook case of elite capture” and a gross failure of public accountability.

A Scandal Before the Ink Dried

Before the government or its apologists could mount any defense, a deeper rot had already emerged: no credible public record of GainGrid Investments exists. The company’s ownership structure remains hidden, its directorship unknown, and its business footprint virtually non-existent. There is no website, no traceable corporate history, and no evidence of regulatory compliance in the mining or financial sectors.

Yet this ghost entity has been guaranteed $8 million monthly—not for delivering gold, but for collecting a 5% incentive on gold delivered by others, paid in advance, backed by taxpayer funds.

The shocking part? This deal bears the signature of the top civil servant in charge of safeguarding public finance.

When Secrecy Trumps Policy

The Ministry of Finance, in a letter dated 4 September 2024, instructed Ecobank Zimbabwe to honour a financial arrangement benefiting GainGrid, citing it as a strategic partner in purchasing gold from miners. The ministry effectively turned over tens of millions in public finance to a private entity without public tender, parliamentary approval, or basic corporate transparency.

This move discredits not only the letter’s signatory, George Guvamatanga, but also the institutional integrity of the Finance Ministry. At a time when Zimbabwe is seeking debt relief and international legitimacy, the state’s willingness to do business with a company hidden behind a corporate veil undermines both financial reform efforts and public trust.

“Show Us the Owners”

The key issue now gripping civil society, opposition MPs, and independent media is simple: Who owns GainGrid Investments? And why did such a high-level ministry choose this specific entity, bypassing public procurement standards?

Government insiders, speaking off the record, say the company may be fronting for politically exposed persons (PEPs) or military-linked business interests. This comes on the heels of previous gold scandals implicating state institutions in laundering operations, including the Al Jazeera Gold Mafia exposé in 2023.

A Harare-based anti-corruption lawyer stated:

“If you can’t identify the shareholders of a company handling millions in public funds, that’s not development—that’s state-enabled looting.”

Propaganda vs. Accountability

In response to growing outrage, pro-government commentator Dereck Goto took to Facebook, labelling critics as “misinformed” and defending the incentive scheme as a “legally sound” economic strategy to curb gold smuggling. But critics argue that no policy, no matter how noble in theory, can justify dealing with a company cloaked in secrecy.

“Policy without transparency is not governance—it’s patronage,” said a political economist at the University of Zimbabwe.

The Bigger Picture

This scandal fits a broader pattern in Zimbabwe’s political economy: the routine weaponisation of opaque companies to extract value from public institutions while insulating beneficiaries from scrutiny. With billions circulating in the informal gold sector, the lack of due diligence and the ease with which secretive entities are empowered reveals the extent to which Zimbabwe’s company registry, financial system, and oversight mechanisms are compromised.

What Comes Next?

Calls are now intensifying for:

Until then, the Ministry of Finance’s credibility—along with that of its most senior bureaucrat—hangs in the balance.

This is a developing story.

By Jamers Gwati-In what appears to be a clear sign of panic, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has issued a stern warning against participation in a planned two-day national shutdown led by ex-combatant Blessed Geza, also known as “Cde Bombshell.”

The shutdown, set for Tuesday and Wednesday—April 22 and 23—is Geza’s latest attempt to force President Emmerson Mnangagwa out of office. 

It follows last month’s protests in Harare, which saw over 100 people arrested in what was widely viewed as the first wave of visible resistance against Mnangagwa’s authoritarian rule.

Despite these arrests and a warrant out for his own arrest, Geza remains defiant, calling on Zimbabweans to stay at home in a peaceful show of disobedience.

“This is to send a strong message to Mnangagwa and his zvigananda,” Geza said in a viral online broadcast. “Shops and industries must not open. Kombis should be parked. The police will not teargas you—but if they come, you have the right to defend yourselves.”

In a statement Monday, the ZRP said it had deployed officers nationwide to maintain law and order, particularly in urban centres, residential areas, and industrial zones. 

Although the police did not explicitly name Geza or the shutdown, their language left little doubt.

“In this regard, the police will arrest anyone who interferes with the smooth flow of traffic and the movement of the public,” the statement reads.

The police also warned citizens against “abusing social media” and urged them to ignore what they called “social media postings meant to cause chaos and alarm in the country.”

The timing of the ZRP’s response appears designed to reassure both local and international visitors expected at this year’s Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) in Bulawayo, which coincides with the planned protests.

But critics say the authorities’ hardline stance reflects a government increasingly afraid of its own citizens. 

With the economy in freefall, widespread corruption, and a collapsing public service, discontent is rising—and fast.

Geza’s call to action has struck a chord, especially with unemployed youths, frustrated civil servants, and disillusioned war veterans.

From hiding, he has continued to rally support through social media, describing the stay-away as one of the few remaining peaceful tools left for resisting Zimbabwe’s authoritarian drift.

“Mnangagwa has captured the judiciary and suspended Parliament at will,” Geza said. “Zimbabwe is now one of the few countries in the world where the right to protest no longer exists. But we’ve discovered that staying at home is a powerful weapon.”

Since seizing power in a 2017 military coup, Mnangagwa has promised a “Second Republic” and a break from Robert Mugabe’s repressive legacy. 

But nearly eight years later, those promises have faded into disillusionment.

The Zimbabwean dollar has collapsed. Inflation is rampant. Basic goods are unaffordable for the majority. Salaries—especially in the public sector—are eroded within days of being paid.

Corruption scandals involving COVID-19 funds, gold smuggling, and shady procurement deals have gone unpunished, with many of the alleged perpetrators linked to Mnangagwa’s inner circle. Meanwhile, journalists, human rights defenders, and opposition activists continue to face arrest, harassment, and persecution.

The President is also accused of dismantling key democratic institutions to cement his grip on power. Parliament has been sidelined.

The judiciary is stacked with loyalists. Promised electoral reforms have not materialized. 

And the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) remains discredited after overseeing elections tainted by irregularities, voter suppression, and allegations of rigging.

Internally, ZANU PF is increasingly divided. Behind Mnangagwa’s strongman persona lies a party riven by factionalism.

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga—who led the 2017 coup—is said to be quietly consolidating his influence within both the military and the party, sparking growing tensions ahead of the next ZANU PF congress.

In his Independence Day address on April 18 in Gokwe, Mnangagwa issued a thinly veiled threat to social media activists accused of “inciting unrest”—a clear jab at Geza and others who have been using digital platforms to mobilize resistance.

But Geza remains undeterred.

“I’m pleading with you to stay home,” he said in a final rallying cry. “I know it’s hard—we’re living from hand to mouth. But this is our only hope to make Mnangagwa hear us. We are staying away to force him to step down.”

By A Correspondent

The death of much-loved comedian Charles Mapalume, affectionately known as Marabha, has been met with a wave of grief across Zimbabwe. However, the sorrow was overshadowed by outrage as some Zanu PF-aligned social media users, known as Varakashi, took to Facebook to mock the late comedian.

Marabha, who passed away over the weekend after a long illness, was a beloved figure in Zimbabwe’s entertainment scene, known for his iconic skits and comedic timing. But instead of condolences, certain Zanu PF youth supporters used the opportunity to rekindle an old political grudge.

In a widely circulated Facebook post, one Varakashi wrote:
“Ndanzwa kuti kunhamo kwamarabha vanyimwa body vashaya mari $200. Ndozvinoitika izvi ukatuka vakuru. Do you remember video rake President vachiti 2030 ndenge ndichipo iye akati tokumamisa. Now ndiani amamiswa manje. Kunyadzisa nemuguva nemuguva. Respect your elders.”

The post refers to a viral comedy clip from years back in which Marabha was accused of mocking President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s 2030 vision. The Varakashi insinuated that Marabha’s misfortunes were a result of his past “disrespect.”

Another comment added fuel to the fire, stating:
“Zvekunzi afa anaka zviya haa hameno. Uyu akanditukira Baba Vangu murume akarara apo uyu.”
(Translation: “That saying about the dead being good people, well I don’t know. This man insulted my father, now he lies lifeless.”)

The comments sparked widespread backlash from members of the public and social media users who condemned the lack of empathy and politicisation of Marabha’s passing.

“Even in death, this is the cruelty we have to endure,” said one Twitter user. “Marabha made people laugh. He was not a politician. Show some humanity.”

Cultural analysts and media commentators have also weighed in, warning against the growing trend of cyberbullying and the toxic politicisation of public discourse in Zimbabwe.

“Marabha brought joy to many. The attempt to reduce his legacy to a single comedy clip taken out of context is not only unfair but reflects the erosion of values in our political culture,” said media scholar Dr. Tinashe Chikomo.

As preparations for his burial continue, fans and fellow artists have called for Marabha to be remembered for the smiles he brought to millions — not for the political divisions others now try to attach to his name.

By Munacho Gwamanda-Zimbabweans are gearing up for a national shutdown starting tomorrow, called by fearless and outspoken war veteran Blessed “Bombshell” Runesu Geza, in a renewed bid to force President Emmerson Mnangagwa out of office.

This comes despite the continued detention of over 100 citizens arrested during last month’s protests in Harare, which marked the first wave of anti-Mnangagwa resistance.

Geza, who masterminded the widely observed shutdown in March, is once again rallying Zimbabweans to stay home on 22 and 23 April 2025 in what he describes as a powerful yet peaceful act of defiance.

“On Tuesday and Wednesday, the 22nd and 23rd of April, everyone must stay home. We must shut down Zimbabwe completely,” Geza declared in a viral online broadcast.

“This is to send a strong message to Mnangagwa and his zvigananda. Shops and industries must not open. Kombis should be parked. The police will not teargas you—but if they come, you have the right to defend yourselves.”

In a country where public demonstrations are effectively banned and civil liberties continue to be eroded, Geza argues that stay-aways have become one of the few non-violent tools left for resisting authoritarian rule.

“Mnangagwa has captured the judiciary and suspended Parliament at will. Zimbabwe is now one of the few countries in the world where the right to protest no longer exists. But we’ve discovered that staying at home is a powerful weapon,” he said.

Despite a nationwide warrant for his arrest—on charges including theft, incitement to violence, and “undermining the authority of the President”—Geza remains defiant. 

Operating from hiding, he has turned to social media to mobilize support, gaining a significant following among unemployed youth, disillusioned war veterans, and ordinary citizens frustrated with the state of the nation.

Geza’s renewed call for action comes as public anger over Mnangagwa’s failed leadership continues to grow.

When Mnangagwa seized power in a 2017 military coup, he promised a “Second Republic” and a break from Robert Mugabe’s authoritarian past. 

But nearly eight years later, those hopes have faded.

Zimbabwe’s economy is in freefall. 

Inflation is out of control. The Zimbabwean dollar continues to lose value. 

Basic commodities are out of reach for many, and civil servants’ salaries are wiped out within days of payment.

Corruption scandals—including the looting of COVID-19 funds, rampant gold smuggling, and shady procurement deals—have gone unpunished, often implicating those within Mnangagwa’s inner circle.

Meanwhile, journalists, opposition leaders, and human rights defenders face relentless harassment and arrest. 

Peaceful dissent is criminalized, and the media is tightly controlled.

Mnangagwa is also accused of dismantling democratic institutions to entrench his grip on power. 

Parliament has been sidelined. 

The judiciary is packed with loyalists. Promised electoral reforms never came to pass. 

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) remains discredited after presiding over deeply flawed elections marred by irregularities, intimidation, and vote-rigging.

Internally, ZANU PF is increasingly divided. 

Behind Mnangagwa’s strongman image lies a party gripped by factionalism. 

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga—who led the 2017 coup—is said to be quietly consolidating power within both the party and the military.

Tensions between the Mnangagwa and Chiwenga camps are reportedly escalating ahead of the next party congress. 

During his Independence Day speech in Gokwe on 18 April, Mnangagwa issued a thinly veiled warning to social media activists accused of “inciting unrest”—a clear jab at Geza and others galvanizing citizens online.

Still, Geza remains undeterred.

“I’m pleading with you to stay home. I know it’s hard—we’re living from hand to mouth. But this is our only hope to make Mnangagwa hear us. We are staying away to force him to step down.”

By A Correspondent

Norton MP Honourable Richard Tsvangirai is at the forefront of a robust campaign against drug abuse in his constituency.

In a statement on Sunday , Tsvangirai highlighted the efforts made during a Sports Gala, saying, “Today, we held our Sports Gala—a vibrant celebration of talent, energy, and unity.

Beyond the games, we used every avenue available to raise awareness against drug and substance abuse.

It was also the perfect opportunity to connect and engage with young people, listening to their voices and sharing messages of hope, resilience, and responsibility.”

Through such initiatives, Tsvangirai aims to make a positive impact in his community.

By A Correspondent

The death of much-loved comedian Charles Mapalume, affectionately known as Marabha, has been met with a wave of grief across Zimbabwe. However, the sorrow was overshadowed by outrage as some Zanu PF-aligned social media users, known as Varakashi, took to Facebook to mock the late comedian.

Marabha, who passed away over the weekend after a long illness, was a beloved figure in Zimbabwe’s entertainment scene, known for his iconic skits and comedic timing. But instead of condolences, certain Zanu PF youth supporters used the opportunity to rekindle an old political grudge.

In a widely circulated Facebook post, one Varakashi wrote:
“Ndanzwa kuti kunhamo kwamarabha vanyimwa body vashaya mari $200. Ndozvinoitika izvi ukatuka vakuru. Do you remember video rake President vachiti 2030 ndenge ndichipo iye akati tokumamisa. Now ndiani amamiswa manje. Kunyadzisa nemuguva nemuguva. Respect your elders.”

The post refers to a viral comedy clip from years back in which Marabha was accused of mocking President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s 2030 vision. The Varakashi insinuated that Marabha’s misfortunes were a result of his past “disrespect.”

Another comment added fuel to the fire, stating:
“Zvekunzi afa anaka zviya haa hameno. Uyu akanditukira Baba Vangu murume akarara apo uyu.”
(Translation: “That saying about the dead being good people, well I don’t know. This man insulted my father, now he lies lifeless.”)

The comments sparked widespread backlash from members of the public and social media users who condemned the lack of empathy and politicisation of Marabha’s passing.

“Even in death, this is the cruelty we have to endure,” said one Twitter user. “Marabha made people laugh. He was not a politician. Show some humanity.”

Cultural analysts and media commentators have also weighed in, warning against the growing trend of cyberbullying and the toxic politicisation of public discourse in Zimbabwe.

“Marabha brought joy to many. The attempt to reduce his legacy to a single comedy clip taken out of context is not only unfair but reflects the erosion of values in our political culture,” said media scholar Dr. Tinashe Chikomo.

As preparations for his burial continue, fans and fellow artists have called for Marabha to be remembered for the smiles he brought to millions — not for the political divisions others now try to attach to his name.

By A Correspondent

President Emmerson Mnangagwa surprised the nation on Sunday after he failed to attend the much-anticipated Zion Christian Church (ZCC) annual gathering in Mbungo, sparking a flurry of speculation and political commentary.

Mnangagwa, who was scheduled to address thousands of congregants at the influential religious event, instead sent Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe to deliver his remarks. The unexpected absence came just hours after vocal anti-corruption activist Blessed Geza issued a fiery national address predicting Mnangagwa’s political downfall.

“Mnangagwa will be removed from office within weeks,” Geza boldly declared in his broadcast. “Zimbabwe is not a private company, and we will not be ruled through corruption and fear. The people are awake.”

At the ZCC gathering, Minister Garwe read a prepared speech on behalf of the president, but the move was seen by many as a significant political signal. Social media was abuzz with commentary, with some describing the no-show as a “symbolic retreat” in the face of mounting political and public pressure.

Sources within government told this publication that Mnangagwa’s security team and aides, who had already been stationed at Flamboyant Hotel in Masvingo in preparation for the event, were abruptly ordered to return to Harare on Sunday morning.

A senior official at Benjamin Burombo government complex in Masvingo revealed:
“We were told at the last minute that the President was not coming. His close security detail packed up early in the morning and left. No clear explanation was given, but it caught everyone off guard.”

The absence has fueled speculation that Mnangagwa is under increasing internal pressure, both from within the ruling Zanu PF and from growing public dissent. Some analysts are already dubbing the fallout the “Geza Effect.”

One Political commentator noted :

“This isn’t just about skipping a church service. The ZCC event is a political stage, and his absence sends a loud message — either of caution or crisis.”

As whispers grow louder and the nation watches closely, all eyes are now on how President Mnangagwa will respond to this sudden swirl of political tension and public scrutiny.

Former Zanu PF Central Committee member, Blessed Geza has hinted that controversial businessmen Kudakwashe Tagwirei and Wicknell Chivhayo are among a host of high profile people who are set to be arrested by what he termed “progressive security forces”.

Geza made the announcement this morning while updating the nation ahead of the planned national shutdown set to kickoff on Tuesday.

The former Sanyati legislator who has been leading the fight against President Emmerson Mnangagwa said Tagwirei, Chivhayo, Dilesh Nguwaya, Obey Chimuka and others including Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume will be arrested and charged with corruption.

Earlier on, Geza accused Tagwirei and Chivhayo of capturing Mnangagwa and using him to displace top army bosses opposed to the 2030 agenda.

Geza also announced that he has intelligence that Mnangagwa through Justice minister Ziyambi Ziyambi will be tabling before cabinet, the amendments to the constitution before they are taken to parliament and the public.

He said Zanu PF wants to take advantage of its two thirds majority in parliament to push the amendments that will see Mnangagwa stay in office beyond his mandated two terms that will end in 2028.

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By A Correspondent

Lovemore Matuke, Minister of State Security and ZANU PF Politburo member, has come under fire for commandeering the pulpit at the African Apostolic Church’s Easter Conference in Gutu. Matuke used the platform to campaign for ZANU PF and glorify President Emmerson Mnangagwa, turning a sacred service into a political rally.

The move has been widely condemned by critics and church observers, who view it as a blatant violation of the church’s sanctity. A church elder described the incident as a “hijack,” saying, “We came here for spiritual upliftment, not political sermons.”

Matuke’s actions were seen as an attempt to align the church with the ruling party’s agenda, with many congregants expressing discomfort and skepticism. His call for churches to support government initiatives and combat drug abuse was perceived as politically loaded and insincere by some.

The incident has sparked a heated debate about the separation of church and state, with many questioning the appropriateness of using a place of worship for political gain. As one congregant put it, “The church must remain a sanctuary—not a stage for politicians.”

ZANU PF photographer Cleopas Mukungunugwa writing on Sunday, published a breakdown of where he says the USD10 million expenditure for the Gokwe independence celebration went. He wrote :

Ko Standard Newspaper yacho tikangozvivharisa 🤷🏽‍♂️

An Open Clarification to The Standard on Independence Day Expenditure

It appears The Standard owned by Alpha Media Holdings and chaired by Trevor Ncube requires yet another economics lesson on the costs of hosting a national event. Since the paper seems determined to mislead the public on the $10 million allocated for Zimbabwe’s Independence Day celebrations, perhaps a breakdown is necessary.

Where the Funds Were Allocated

1. Venue & Infrastructure

• Construction and upgrades to stadiums, roads, and public spaces.
• Temporary structures (stages, seating, lighting, sound systems).
• Beautification projects to ensure a dignified national event.

2.Security & Emergency Services

• Deployment of police, military, and emergency personnel.
• Surveillance, crowd control, medical teams, and contingency planning.

1. Ceremonial & National Symbols

• Military parades, flag ceremonies, and cultural displays.
• Uniforms, banners, and logistical support for participants.

1. Cultural & Entertainment
2. ⁠- Performers’ fees, rehearsals, and production costs.

• Public engagement through music, dance, and heritage showcases.

1. Publicity & Media Coverage

• Nationwide campaigns to promote patriotism and participation.
• Broadcast logistics to ensure all Zimbabweans could partake.

1. Logistics & Hospitality

• Transport and accommodation for dignitaries, artists, and officials.
• Catering for attendees, including vulnerable communities invited.

1. Administrative & Contingency

• Event coordination, permits, and staffing.
• Emergency reserves for unforeseen circumstances.

A Question for The Standard
….
If the paper were genuinely interested in accountability, it would scrutinize all major expenditures including those of private corporations and opposition groups with the same vigor. Instead, it opts for sensationalism, undermining a celebration that unites millions of Zimbabweans.

One must ask: Why does The Standard consistently distort facts to attack the government while benefiting from its advertising revenue? Is this journalism, or a deliberate campaign to erode public trust in national institutions?

Zimbabwe’s independence was earned through sacrifice. Its celebration is not merely an “expense” it’s an investment in national pride, unity, and heritage. If The Standard disagrees, perhaps it should state so plainly rather than disguising bias as “investigative reporting.

By A Correspondent

President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa marked Zimbabwe’s 45th Independence Day in Gokwe with a speech brimming with self-congratulation, touting his government’s supposed achievements in unity, economic growth, and national resilience. Yet, beneath the polished rhetoric lies a harsh reality for many Zimbabweans who continue to endure deepening poverty, chronic inflation, and deteriorating public services.

At the national event in Gokwe-Nembudziya, Midlands Province, Mnangagwa declared, “Divisive and alarmist elements will never triumph over a nation such as ours; with a rich liberation history and born out of the blood of the brave sons and daughters of this sacred land.” He painted critics as enemies of progress and assured that law enforcement would act in the “best interests” of Zimbabwe—language that critics argue often serves to justify repression rather than reform.

Despite his grand declarations, skepticism continues to grow over Mnangagwa’s ability to deliver real change. Many of the policies he celebrated remain either underfunded, inconsistently implemented, or disconnected from the urgent needs of the majority.

Devolution and Inclusivity

Mnangagwa pointed to Gokwe as a symbol of his administration’s commitment to devolution, claiming no one would be left behind. However, years into his presidency, many rural areas remain neglected, with poor infrastructure and minimal government presence—raising doubts about the sincerity of this “leave no place behind” mantra.

Economic Growth Projections

The President boasted of a projected 5.6% economic growth rate, driven by the mining sector and global commodity prices. But these figures, while encouraging on paper, mean little to ordinary citizens struggling with joblessness, runaway prices, and wages that don’t match the cost of living. Economic growth under Mnangagwa has largely failed to translate into broad-based improvement in livelihoods.

Agriculture and Food Security

He celebrated the Pfumvudza/Intwasa program and a predicted bumper harvest. Yet, many small-scale farmers have criticized the program’s inconsistent support and delays in the distribution of inputs. In a country frequently battered by climate shocks, agricultural resilience remains a distant goal.

Infrastructure and Disaster Recovery

Mnangagwa spoke of rehabilitating infrastructure damaged by extreme weather, including schools, clinics, and bridges. But in many communities, such projects have either stalled or never started, and local authorities often cite lack of funding and poor central coordination.

Citizen Empowerment

The President touted efforts to empower women, youth, and vulnerable groups through financial schemes and training. However, these initiatives often reach only a small fraction of the population, and transparency in their implementation is minimal. For many, the promises of empowerment are more political slogans than tangible change.

Vision 2030

Mnangagwa again committed to his Vision 2030, pledging industrialization and modernization to uplift Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income country. But with a stagnant industrial base, a crumbling healthcare system, and a restive population, critics question whether his administration has the vision, competence, or political will to meet that ambitious target.

While the President continues to celebrate progress, Zimbabweans on the ground face worsening conditions. The gap between official narratives and lived realities is growing—raising uncomfortable questions about who, if anyone, is truly benefiting from the so-called economic transformation. For many, Independence Day was less about pride and progress, and more a painful reminder of promises broken and futures deferred.

By A Correspondent

Lovemore Matuke, Minister of State Security and ZANU PF Politburo member, has come under fire for commandeering the pulpit at the African Apostolic Church’s Easter Conference in Gutu. Matuke used the platform to campaign for ZANU PF and glorify President Emmerson Mnangagwa, turning a sacred service into a political rally.

The move has been widely condemned by critics and church observers, who view it as a blatant violation of the church’s sanctity. A church elder described the incident as a “hijack,” saying, “We came here for spiritual upliftment, not political sermons.”

Matuke’s actions were seen as an attempt to align the church with the ruling party’s agenda, with many congregants expressing discomfort and skepticism. His call for churches to support government initiatives and combat drug abuse was perceived as politically loaded and insincere by some.

The incident has sparked a heated debate about the separation of church and state, with many questioning the appropriateness of using a place of worship for political gain. As one congregant put it, “The church must remain a sanctuary—not a stage for politicians.”

By A Correspondent

War veteran Blessed Geza has delivered a scathing assessment of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s leadership, declaring him unfit to continue leading Zimbabwe.

In a strongly worded statement issued Saturday night, Geza openly called for Mnangagwa to step down immediately, accusing him of presiding over a failed administration.

“Don’t worry about the last kicks of a dying horse — Mnangagwa is going, and we are unrolling a plan of action,” Geza said, hinting at a broader strategy by disgruntled liberation war veterans and activists to push for leadership change.

Geza’s remarks reflect growing frustration among sections of the former liberation fighters, many of whom have become increasingly critical of Mnangagwa’s governance, economic mismanagement, and failure to deliver on promises made since taking power in 2017.

By A Correspondent

War veteran Blessed Geza has delivered a scathing assessment of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s leadership, declaring him unfit to continue leading Zimbabwe.

In a strongly worded statement issued Saturday night, Geza openly called for Mnangagwa to step down immediately, accusing him of presiding over a failed administration.

“Don’t worry about the last kicks of a dying horse — Mnangagwa is going, and we are unrolling a plan of action,” Geza said, hinting at a broader strategy by disgruntled liberation war veterans and activists to push for leadership change.

Geza’s remarks reflect growing frustration among sections of the former liberation fighters, many of whom have become increasingly critical of Mnangagwa’s governance, economic mismanagement, and failure to deliver on promises made since taking power in 2017.

By A Correspondent

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is under fire following explosive allegations of rampant corruption and sex-based exploitation within its ranks, particularly in the promotion and transfer of school heads.

Sources within the education sector claim that promotions are no longer based on merit, with teachers reportedly paying bribes to secure appointments as school heads. In some disturbing instances, female teachers are allegedly being coerced into sexual relationships with superiors in exchange for promotions.

“If you don’t pay, or if you refuse to sleep with someone, you’re going nowhere,” said one teacher, who spoke on condition of anonymity out of fear of reprisal. “It’s no longer about qualifications or experience — it’s about who you know or what you can offer.”

The situation in Masvingo Province has particularly raised eyebrows. Last month, only five candidates were invited for interviews to fill 80 vacant secondary school head posts. According to insiders, 30 candidates had applied, but 25 were disqualified under questionable circumstances.

“This was a deliberate move,” said a source familiar with the recruitment process. “They wanted fewer candidates so that the remaining 75 positions can be handed out quietly through connections or bribes. The Provincial Education Director and Public Service Commission now have the power to decide who gets what — and that’s where the deals are made.”

Education experts have sounded the alarm, warning that such practices are eroding the quality and integrity of Zimbabwe’s education system.

“When promotions are no longer based on performance or ability, but on corruption and coercion, the entire education system suffers,” said an education policy analyst. “It demoralizes teachers, lowers standards, and undermines the future of our children.”

Despite the gravity of the allegations, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has yet to issue an official response. As public outrage grows, stakeholders are demanding an independent investigation and accountability for those found to be abusing their positions.

Meanwhile, educators across the country continue to work under a cloud of fear, manipulation, and mistrust — symptoms of a system many say is in urgent need of reform.

By A Correspondent

War veteran Blessed Geza has intensified his criticism of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, calling for a national shutdown as part of efforts to pressure the embattled leader to resign.

In a hard-hitting statement released Saturday night, Geza declared that Mnangagwa is no longer fit to lead Zimbabwe, accusing him of failing the nation through corruption, economic mismanagement, and unfulfilled promises.

“Don’t worry about the last kicks of a dying horse — Mnangagwa is going, and we are unrolling a plan of action,” said Geza, signaling the beginning of what he described as a nationwide push for change.

He revealed that preparations are underway for a coordinated shutdown involving war veterans, civil society, and ordinary citizens, aimed at sending a clear message to the ruling elite.

Geza’s bold remarks, which can be viewed here, underscore a growing sense of discontent within the ranks of the liberation war veterans—many of whom once supported Mnangagwa but now see his administration as having betrayed the values of the liberation struggle.

As economic conditions continue to deteriorate and public frustration deepens, Geza’s call for mass action could mark a turning point in the political landscape, putting further pressure on a presidency already facing mounting criticism from within and outside the ruling party.

Masvingo, Zimbabwe – April 20, 2025

President Emmerson Mnangagwa is expected to make a high-stakes appearance today at the Zion Christian Church (ZCC)’s Easter Conference at Mbungo in Masvingo, in what observers say is a calculated move to reclaim his waning popularity following an internal power shift in January that saw Vice President Constantino Chiwenga rise in political favor.

The sprawling ZCC compound has transformed into a sea of green, white, and navy blue as tens of thousands of congregants gathered under overcast skies. The images show a densely packed crowd of worshippers—many of them clad in signature ZCC uniforms—seated in rows of black chairs, some clasping hymn books and wrapped in winter coats against the cold. A mix of solemnity and anticipation is evident in their faces.

One image captures the towering ZCC cathedral, its iconic green rooftop rising against a bright sky—a stark contrast to the tension lingering in the national political climate. Uniformed church stewards and security personnel are strategically placed across the grounds, while members of the church hierarchy have taken up front-row positions awaiting the President’s arrival.

Mnangagwa’s attendance at the Easter gathering is being interpreted by analysts as a strategic attempt to leverage the church’s massive following to revive his grassroots support base. Since the start of 2025, Mnangagwa has seen his authority tested within ZANU-PF, with Chiwenga reportedly consolidating control over key military and party structures.

“This is not just a religious appearance. It’s a political statement,” said a political commentator in Harare. “Mnangagwa knows the ZCC platform reaches millions. If he can reassert moral leadership here, he might stall Chiwenga’s momentum—at least in the public imagination.”

The ZCC, one of Zimbabwe’s most influential religious institutions, has historically offered sitting leaders a stage for both spiritual reflection and subtle campaigning. Today’s event, however, carries greater urgency for Mnangagwa, whose presidency is now perceived as fragile amid mounting economic dissatisfaction, factional tensions, and renewed scrutiny of his leadership style.

Whether Mnangagwa can reignite the political fervor that once carried him to power remains to be seen. But for now, all eyes are on Mbungo, where faith and politics converge in dramatic fashion.

More updates to follow as the story develops.

April 20, 2025 | Johannesburg – ZimShowBizOnline

A leaked WhatsApp voice recording has sent shockwaves across southern Africa, revealing a disturbing plot by members of the South African far-right, xenophobic Dudula Movement targeting prominent Zimbabwean broadcaster Ezra Tshisa Sibanda and the humanitarian organization led by Nobuhle Virgie.

The chilling audio, which has been circulated to the media, captures Dudula members expressing outrage over the Nobuhle Virgie Foundation’s support for Zimbabwean refugees and migrants. In the leaked conversation, conspirators reportedly discuss plans to “deal with” Sibanda and the Foundation, accusing them of aiding foreign nationals and undermining Dudula’s anti-immigrant agenda.

Sibanda, a veteran journalist and respected voice in African media, took to social media to condemn the threats and reaffirm his commitment to advocacy. “Let me be clear: helping desperate people is not a crime. Showing compassion is not betrayal. It is humanity,” he wrote. He warned that the voice note, “steeped in venom and xenophobia,” is part of a broader rise in online hate networks radicalizing youth and normalizing bigotry.

“This is not idle gossip,” Sibanda stressed. “It amounts to incitement and, potentially, hate crimes. Authorities must urgently investigate the origins and membership of these extremist groups.”

He called on the South African government to act decisively, warning that the rhetoric mirrored past atrocities from Rwanda to apartheid South Africa. “There is a moral and constitutional duty to reject hate, especially when it masquerades as patriotism,” Sibanda declared.

The Nobuhle Virgie Foundation, known for its extensive humanitarian work with migrants and refugees, has also pledged to continue its efforts despite the threats.

Sibanda closed his statement with defiance: “Dudula, listen closely, I FEAR FOKOL!”

This development has sparked widespread condemnation, with human rights groups urging authorities to crack down on hate-fueled extremism and safeguard those advocating for vulnerable communities.

Story developing…

A national embarrassment unfolded on Friday as Zimbabwe’s much-hyped Independence Day celebrations descended into chaos, exposing the alleged misuse of over US$10 million in public funds on crumbling infrastructure and shoddy stadium construction.

Despite claims by Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe that the government had completed a “fully equipped, modern stadium” in time for the 45th Independence Day commemorations at Mutora growth point, the reality on the ground painted a starkly different picture.

The so-called state-of-the-art facility, built at Nembudziya open grounds, failed its first real test when heavy rains turned the pitch into a soggy swamp. Security forces struggled to execute parades in the waterlogged arena, and spectators were seen wading through mud as basic amenities buckled under pressure.

Worse still, bucket seats—proudly showcased just a day earlier—were ripped from their bases before the event concluded. Footage widely circulated on social media showed drenched attendees slipping across the slick, uneven surfaces, with many expressing outrage at what they termed a “national disgrace.”

“This is not a stadium. It’s a swamp with plastic chairs,” one attendee said in a video that has since gone viral.

Government sources had boasted of a multi-million-dollar infrastructure overhaul in Gokwe North ahead of the celebrations, but critics now accuse the state of misappropriation and cutting corners for political showmanship.

“This is a textbook example of looting under the guise of development,” said a senior opposition official. “The regime is more interested in optics than actual delivery. Millions have been siphoned off in the name of patriotism.”

With mounting public anger and visible evidence of construction failure, calls are growing for a full forensic audit of the Independence Day expenditure. Neither Minister Garwe nor the Ministry of Local Government had responded to media requests for comment at the time of publication.

As the mud settles on what was supposed to be a celebration of national pride, questions loom large over who benefited from the inflated budgets—and who will be held accountable for the farce.

By Tinashe Sambiri

GOKWE – President Emmerson Mnangagwa came under scrutiny on Friday after delivering a speech at the 2025 national Independence Day celebrations in Gokwe that many have described as a political maneuver aimed at appeasing war veterans without offering concrete action.

Addressing thousands gathered for the commemorations, the Zanu PF leader called for national unity and praised the role of war veterans in Zimbabwe’s liberation history.

“Let us remain united as a nation against our detractors,” Mnangagwa said. “War veterans will remain a top priority in the national development agenda and in this progressive dispensation where my Government is successfully issuing the title deeds programme, which has so far empowered many livelihoods.”

He also commended the Midlands Province for its agricultural productivity, calling it a model for food security in the country.

However, critics and some war veterans expressed skepticism, saying the President’s remarks lacked substance and failed to address long-standing grievances over welfare, compensation, and recognition. While he praised the title deeds programme, observers noted that few war veterans have actually benefited from it, especially in rural areas like Gokwe.

The speech is being seen by some as a strategic move to maintain political support among a key constituency ahead of future elections, rather than a commitment to meaningful reform or empowerment.

Marry Mubaiwa boldly responds to Christopher Mutsvangwa remarks…

The motormouth Zanu PF spokesperson has been left clutching thin air..

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ZimEye is investigating an internal report that suggests the tender for the Gokwe grounds for yesterday’s function was USD10 million

By A Correspondent

A self-proclaimed traditional healer from Gokwe has been sentenced to nine years in prison after being convicted of illegally possessing and attempting to sell protected animal trophies.

Cephas Zimuti (54), along with his co-accused Eliel Fisher (26), was found guilty following a full trial and sentenced by Magistrate Honest Musiiwa.

The pair was arrested on November 12, 2024, near Kambasha Business Centre after police received a tip-off about their illegal activities. Upon searching them, authorities discovered two full leopard skins weighing 3kgs, a hedgehog skin weighing 0.050kgs, and 88 pangolin scales weighing 0.35kgs. The items, which were being held without a permit, were valued at US$41,500.

Zimuti claimed in court that he was a registered traditional healer and that the trophies were inherited from his late grandfather, entrusted to him for safekeeping. However, the court found insufficient evidence to support his defense.

The arrest came after a police taskforce moved in on the suspects during a sting operation, catching them in the act as they were allegedly preparing to sell the trophies to potential buyers.

By Tinashe Sambiri

GOKWE – President Emmerson Mnangagwa came under scrutiny on Friday after delivering a speech at the 2025 national Independence Day celebrations in Gokwe that many have described as a political maneuver aimed at appeasing war veterans without offering concrete action.

Addressing thousands gathered for the commemorations, the Zanu PF leader called for national unity and praised the role of war veterans in Zimbabwe’s liberation history.

“Let us remain united as a nation against our detractors,” Mnangagwa said. “War veterans will remain a top priority in the national development agenda and in this progressive dispensation where my Government is successfully issuing the title deeds programme, which has so far empowered many livelihoods.”

He also commended the Midlands Province for its agricultural productivity, calling it a model for food security in the country.

However, critics and some war veterans expressed skepticism, saying the President’s remarks lacked substance and failed to address long-standing grievances over welfare, compensation, and recognition. While he praised the title deeds programme, observers noted that few war veterans have actually benefited from it, especially in rural areas like Gokwe.

The speech is being seen by some as a strategic move to maintain political support among a key constituency ahead of future elections, rather than a commitment to meaningful reform or empowerment.